Race 14 - Belgian GP 2024 - Spa Francochamp

[Nitrodaze]

On the back of a controversial McLaren double podium in Hungary, we head to the Arden forest of Spa Francochamp Belgium. The weekend starts with the news of Verstappen taking a grid penalty for an engine change, which opens up the podium positions somewhat.
Another McLaren double is very much on the cards, but this is a bogey track for McLaren. But rumors suggest they have a special rear wing for this race that would address their issues from last season.

This is a power track, hence it would be a tighter battle for the last place on the podium between Ferrari and Mercedes. Russell would be looking to have a better race this time around. Perez would be looking to build on his good form in Hungary also.

The real question now is which McLaren driver would win the race? Lando or Oscar?

[52Paddy]

If the weather is dry, I expect Max to come through the field today. Mercedes look on decent form too. Not sure about Perez. He'll have a lot of pressure on him so hopefully he can put it to good. McLarens will be interesting to watch - they'll either punch above their weight at this track or fall back through the field. Maybe Albon could spring a surprise top 10 after his decent quali performance. If it rains, God only knows then...

[Nitrodaze]

Mercedes is being dumb at the mo. Piastri may win this race

[Nitrodaze]

Greatr race from Russell and Mercedes,. I did not see that coming

[N. Jones]

Idiots!

Mercedes showed the way, but everyone else two-stopped. It cost McLaren the win.

[N. Jones]

I guess I choose the right time to work on the FGP results - Russell has been disqualified for having an underweight car!

[Nitrodaze]

I guess I choose the right time to work on the FGP results - Russell has been disqualified for having an underweight car!

Yep. Apparently, he was supposed to lift and coast to save fuel but may have not done enough lifting and coasting. According to Horner, he may also have lost over a kilo of tyre rubber by one-stopping. Leclerc shall have a podium after all.

That was a highly intelligent strategic call by Russell. He has clearly learned a thing or two from having Hamilton as a team-mate. This is a very typical Hamilton strategic move. He deserved the win. I am sure he will get another one before the season is out.

Lando Norris seems to be imploding. McLaren needs to change their strategist. This was another race they should have won. They had the pace and Piastri was well placed to take advantage. They should have taken a risk like Russell.

[gm99]

Yep. Apparently, he was supposed to lift and coast to save fuel but may have not done enough lifting and coasting.

As Article 4.1 of the technical regulations clearly states "The mass of the car, without fuel, must not be less than 798 kg, at all times during the competition", I don't see how saving fuel by lifting and coasting could possibly have led to Russell's car being in compliance with the rules.

[Matthew]

I guess I choose the right time to work on the FGP results - Russell has been disqualified for having an underweight car!

Unlucky for him but the rules are very clear on this and it was not a surprise to see no complains from Mercedes after this disqualification.

[N. Jones]

Oh, I agree. They goofed after a brilliant drive from George.